FG Launches New Empowerment Program for Disabled Persons in Nigeria
The federal government has demonstrated a commitment to inclusivity by endorsing a 10% inclusion for Persons Living With Disabilities (PLWDs) in all federal government interventions and social safety net schemes managed by the Federal Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation.
Dr. Betta Edu, the Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, unveiled this groundbreaking initiative during the launch of the empowerment program at the FCT Art and Culture Conference Hall in Abuja.
Under this new policy, PLWDs will gain access to a range of programs, including the End Hunger initiative, Conditional Cash Transfer, N-power, Renewed Hope Shelters Program, Geep Programmes, and the Code Nigeria program, among others.
The National Commission for Persons With Disabilities will play a pivotal role in both the selection and execution of these inclusive measures.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, acknowledging the unique abilities of PLWDs, has been at the forefront of advocating for this cause, reshaping the narrative and promoting a more inclusive society.
Dr. Edu commended President Tinubu for ratifying the African charter on the protection of the rights of persons living with disabilities and for appointing individuals with disabilities to key government positions.
She underscored the transformative potential of the Renewed Hope Agenda, which aims to uplift 50 million Nigerians, including PLWDs, out of poverty within 42 months.
In a symbolic gesture, the minister provided Point of Sales (POS) machines and N100,000 operational capital to PLWDs. Additionally, she announced N130,000 in scholarship support for PLWDs pursuing tertiary education nationwide and allocated a generous N20 million annual grant to the Association of Persons Living with Disabilities in Nigeria.
This initiative represents a significant leap towards establishing a more inclusive and supportive environment for Persons Living With Disabilities, underscoring the government’s commitment to ensuring that no one is left behind on the path to development. Share your thoughts on this information in the comment section below.
